NOTHING EVER HAPPENS

Be careful what you wish for.

Deep in the ocean, two fish—one small and orange, the other a larger yellow pufferfish—are bored with their monotonous lives. “Same old rock.” “Same old shell.” “Same old seaweed.” “Same old starfish.” The orange fish wishes that “something AMAZING” would happen. Suddenly, the startled pufferfish senses something and inflates while its blithely unaware companion prattles on, longing for “someone who would take us on an adventure.” Sharply focused illustrations greatly enhance the action and provide plenty of clues. Young readers will notice everything these creatures do not. These pals have been swimming in front of what appears to be a large rock—a rock with eyes and a huge toothy maw. Wait a minute…rocks don’t have teeth! Little ones will likely try to warn the fish, but to no avail—it’s time for a truly amazing adventure to ensue. Both characters display distinct personalities in their movements, their expressive round eyes, and in their reactions. McKinnon’s comedic timing is spot-on, and she brings her story to a giggle-inducing conclusion: Once the friends are finally safe again, they’re content with their previous state of being—but still eager for more exploits.

Delightfully engaging and pure fun.